Electrical vs. Computer engineering

AI Thread Summary
The discussion centers around choosing between computer engineering (CE) and electrical engineering (EE) for an undergraduate degree. The individual expresses a preference for CE but is concerned about its specialization compared to EE, which is perceived to offer broader opportunities. Participants highlight that the first two years of both programs are likely similar, allowing for an easier switch between majors. They recommend reviewing course requirements, noting that CE focuses more on programming while EE covers a wider range of topics, including control systems and communications. The consensus suggests that if one is certain about a career in the computer industry, CE is the way to go, but for those uncertain about their future path, EE provides more diverse options and foundational knowledge across various fields.
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So I got accepted into engineering, which is just general engineering first year. However the university has asked me for my preferred discipline now, and I was about to put computer engineering. The thing is, i heard that taking electrical engineering as an undergrad degree is a better option because i can decide to do masters in computer later on. On the other hand, doing an undergraduate degree in computer engineering would be cool but it feels too specialized for me.

Basically what I'm saying is that electrical engineering seems like it opens much more opportunities, while computer engineering is more "restricted".

So any advice? thanks in advance :)

Also: could you possibly list some advantages to both degrees, basically a comparison. Thanks.
 
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For the first 2 years the curricula will probably be very similar. You'll also probably be able to switch your major between the two of them quite easily. Why don't you look through the suggested course of study or sample degree track and see what classes look more interesting to you?
 
id say go for EE
 
Could you possibly tell me why you think i should go EE? Thanks for answering.
 
fss said:
For the first 2 years the curricula will probably be very similar. You'll also probably be able to switch your major between the two of them quite easily. Why don't you look through the suggested course of study or sample degree track and see what classes look more interesting to you?

+1

You should definitely look at at the course requirements for each degree and compare them. I know at my university the only difference is that Computer Engineers take more programming courses, like operating system programming, where EE's take many courses in various fields, computers, control, communications, E&M, etc...

I'm an EE so I'm kind of biased to say do an EE. Unless your 100% sure you want to get into the computer industry, then your best bet is to go CE.
If you do EE then you can learn the basics of many fields and have more options when you go out into industry and try to get a job.

So in short:
You know you want to be a working in the computer industry: Go CE
You have no idea where you want to go for sure: Go EE
 
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